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Polaroid of the Week: Breathtaking Beach Sunset in Montañita, Ecuador

Polaroid of the Week: Breathtaking Beach Sunset in Montañita, Ecuador
After a week in the hot, humid confines of Guayaquil, I eagerly headed to the coast for refreshing ocean breezes. Montañita, a vibrant village on Ecuador's Santa Elena Peninsula along the Pacific Coast, is renowned as the country's premier surf destination. Upon arrival, I discovered it's also a major party hub attracting revelers from across South America—think Ibiza's energy, but with pulsating music from beachfront discos rather than massive clubs.

However, I wasn't in the party mood. Safety concerns deterred nighttime solo walks, especially after the tragic murder of two Argentine backpackers less than a year prior. The main beach was decent but unremarkable, with daily red flags signaling dangerously high waves and strong currents.

I found greater appeal in nearby spots: Olón to the north offered charming accommodations, delightful eateries, inviting beach bars, and fewer crowds. Manglaralto to the south felt even more local, with scarcely any foreign tourists during my visit.

What unites these coastal gems? Spectacular Pacific sunsets that painted the sky nightly. As a seasoned traveler, I never miss them—they reliably deliver awe-inspiring beauty.


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